CO.STARTERS is a program designed to provide you with insights, relationships, and tools to turn your idea into action and a sustainable business. 

If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, or a seasoned entrepreneur looking to launch a new product or service, CO.STARTERS is for you. The one requirement is that you have to have a concept you are ready to test and be willing to study, shape and fine-tune in a supportive, collaborative, and welcoming environment. If you're creative, community-minded, and serious about turning your passion into a thriving business, we want you.

Don't miss your chance to enroll in this FREE 10-week course!

Laura Klock is President and Founder of the local non-profit Helping with Horsepower and co-owner of Farm Life Creamery located in Ethan, SD.

Now in her 50's and a grandmother of 2, Laura has settled into her self-proclaimed title of “Serial Entrepreneur”. This comes from reflecting on all the startup businesses and business transformations that she has participated in over the years, and her love of continual learning and mentorship. Her experience is vast, from holding motorcycle land speed racing records, to equine therapy, graphic design and marketing, teaching, business ownership, and now, starting a local creamery and farm experience!

Laura has joined the Chamber team to co-facilitate the CO.STARTERS curriculum and offer real world experience and example as participants learn tools to turn their ideas into action. Laura enjoys helping others achieve their dreams in both business and life and is happy to share any information she can to encourage others to follow their passions and create a business they enjoy!

During CO.STARTERS, you’ll develop and fine-tune your idea, critically examining every part of it and plan your next steps through feedback from people in the community. The program is facilitated by active local entrepreneurs and educators, and guest speakers include specialists and professionals from the Mitchell area in marketing, branding, legal and finance agencies, as well as other entrepreneurs.

The course consists of eleven sessions; the last session will be a Startup Pitch Night featuring cohort members. We are currently running one cohort per year, with the next cohort beginning in October 3, 2023. During that time, we'll cover the following topics:

Session 1: Knowing Yourself

Session 2: Knowing Your Customer

Session 3: Find the Right Solution

Session 4: Getting the Relationship Right

Session 5: Building Blocks

Session 6: Structures & Systems

Session 7: Discovering the Bottom Line

Session 8: Financial Modeling

Session 9: Planning for Growth

Session 10: Celebration Night

Matt Doerr is a husband, father, entrepreneur, and results-driven CPA with 10+ years of experience in public accounting. He partners with individuals and business owners to simplify taxes, help businesses plan through major decisions, and ultimately improve lifestyles.

He and his wife, Michaela, operate various businesses in Mitchell and the surrounding communities. Matt and Michaela enjoy working hard and creating experiences with their three kids. When he’s not working in the office, you’ll likely find Matt working on their homestead or taking vacations with his family. 

Matt says about the program, "If you're intrigued about the program, need help with the next step in your business, or looking for resources, join us! The program is full of material that you'll likely find more simple and helpful than any education course you've taken before. It will be interactive and constructive. Don't wait for things to be perfect until you get started."